James Cameron adapting The Devils novel after Avatar marks a significant shift for the acclaimed filmmaker as he embarks on a new literary adaptation. Following the announcement from Lightstorm Entertainment, Cameron confirmed the acquisition of the rights to The Devils by British author Joe Abercrombie, signaling an exciting new project after his time with the Avatar franchise.
Cameron’s Enthusiasm for The Devils
Cameron shared the news on Facebook, revealing that he will co-write the screenplay alongside Abercrombie. The Devils, published on May 6, quickly made an impact in both the UK and US, topping the Sunday Times bestseller list and debuting at number five on the New York Times list. Cameron, known for his innovative filmmaking, described the novel as a brisk, horror-driven adventure and openly admired Abercrombie’s craft.
“a twisted, stylish, alt-universe middle-ages romp.”
—James Cameron, Director
The director went on to praise the author’s writing style and thematic complexity, noting the dark humor, complex morality, and unpredictable storyline that drew him to the project. Cameron’s admiration extended to Abercrombie’s earlier works, highlighting Best Served Cold and the Age of Madness trilogy as personal favorites. However, it was The Devils that finally convinced him to take on this adaptation.
“This is Joe Abercrombie in absolute peak form,”
—James Cameron, Director
“The Devils showcases Joe’s jaundiced view of human nature, in all its dark, selfish glory, as told through some decidedly un-human characters. But of course, Joe always teases with the flickers of redemption that make it all worthwhile—and ultimately quite heartwrenching.”
—James Cameron, Director
Abercrombie’s Style Suited for the Screen
Cameron commented on how naturally Abercrombie’s writing lends itself to film adaptation, remarking on its inherently visual and cinematic qualities. This, he said, makes working on The Devils an appealing challenge as he prepares to conclude his work on Avatar: Fire and Ash.
“Joe writes very visually, almost in scenes, and with a very cinematic structure,”
—James Cameron, Director
“I can’t wait to dig into this as I wind down on Avatar: Fire and Ash. It will be a joyful new challenge for me.”
—James Cameron, Director
Joe Abercrombie Reflects on the Collaboration
Joe Abercrombie expressed great excitement about partnering with Cameron, viewing the collaboration as a milestone in his career. He emphasized Cameron’s ability to balance spectacle and emotional stakes, stating his confidence in the director’s vision for bringing this unique story into the cinematic realm.
“James Cameron has been thrilling audiences, including me, by putting the impossible on film for over four decades,”
—Joe Abercrombie, Author
“No one can balance mind-blowing action and spectacle with gut-wrenching personal stakes and story the way he does. I can’t think of anyone better to bring this weird and wonderful monster of a book to the screen.”
—Joe Abercrombie, Author
The Story Behind The Devils
The Devils centers on Brother Diaz, who is summoned to the Sacred City with the expectation of receiving a high honor and important task. Instead, he finds his new charges are made up of unrepentant murderers, users of forbidden magic, and monstrous beings. Achieving their mission will demand grim actions from every member of this unusual assembly.
Threats abound, with elves looming on the borders hungry for human prey and powerful princes prioritizing their personal gain over the fate of their people. Facing a harrowing journey, Brother Diaz must rely on his band of outcasts—referred to as “the devils”—to achieve a supposedly righteous goal, in a tale that blends dark fantasy with moral nuance.
Upcoming Projects for James Cameron
While no set date has been announced for The Devils to begin production, Cameron’s slate remains busy. As he wraps up work on Avatar: Fire and Ash—scheduled to premiere on December 19, 2025—he will shift focus toward co-writing The Devils. Fans of the Avatar series can also look forward to the release of Avatar 4 on December 21, 2029, followed by the final installment, Avatar 5, arriving on December 19, 2031.
This strategic move indicates that, even as James Cameron continues to deliver the ambitious Avatar films, he is committed to exploring new creative terrain. His decision to adapt Abercrombie’s novel suggests a willingness to embrace fresh, challenging material, promising audiences another visually spectacular and emotionally charged cinematic journey.
